(Water
Project Update:Following the
discussions at Town Meeting, the select board remains committed to providing
regular updates on the progress of the town’s water project to the residents
and businesses of Waitsfield.)

In
late December, following a decision by the court that Reed Road is not a town
road, the select board made the decision to pursue two parallel approaches to
secure the well site that will support our community water project.
Specifically, we voted to pursue both settlement negotiations with the
landowners and condemnation proceedings. While both of these approaches are
capable of securing the current well site, the board has consistently
prioritized negotiated settlement with the involved landowners over
condemnation.

Both
approaches are still in process:

·Settlement
status: Strong efforts began in December, are ongoing, and will continue as
long as these discussions continue to hold any promise of success.

·Condemnation
status: With no settlement yet reached, on March 18 the select board issued a
notice of decision. This notice of decision moves formal condemnation
proceedings forward, and makes clear our commitment to completing the community
water project. Again, pursuit of condemnation does not alter our preference for
a negotiated settlement or diminish the possibility of a settlement outcome. The
full notice of decision is available to the public at the town office.

The
community water project is essential to preserve public health, consolidate our
commercial growth center and advance the town’s goals as per the Town Plan.
Securing a reliable water source that meets the town’s needs is a critical
component of the water project. In the coming months, the select board, through
continued negotiations or through the condemnation process, will work
diligently to ensure that such a water source is obtained and the best
interests of the community are served.

With
the opening of the construction season in April, we will continue to fund
budgeted project construction, excluding those contracts directly involving the
well site. This approach will enable the town to position the project for
timely success. Work at the well site and along Reed Road will commence only
after an agreement with the landowners has been reached or the town has
obtained title to the property through condemnation.

We
continue to welcome your questions about this and other town projects, either
at public meetings or via direct communication. On Monday, April 11, at 7 p.m.,
the select board will be holding a public meeting to discuss the town of
Waitsfield Water Ordinance. In general, the select board meets on the second
and fourth Monday of each month – public welcome. Finally, you are also welcome
to direct questions to Town Administrator Valerie Capels at the town office or
to phone any of us at your convenience.